As the thrill of the National Football League (NFL) season approaches, fans everywhere are eagerly searching for ways to catch all the action. In recent years, one of the most popular streaming platforms has been YouTube TV. But the question remains: What NFL games can you actually get with YouTube TV? This article will explore how YouTube TV caters to NFL enthusiasts, detailing the channels available, specific games that you don’t want to miss, and tips for maximizing your viewing experience.
A Comprehensive Overview of YouTube TV and NFL Coverage
Before diving into specific games, let’s take a broader look at YouTube TV and its offerings. YouTube TV is a subscription-based streaming service that provides access to live television, including a range of sports channels.
Channels That Broadcast NFL Games on YouTube TV
With a subscription to YouTube TV, subscribers have access to a robust lineup of channels that air NFL games. Here are the primary channels to note:
- ESPN – Covers Monday Night Football and several key playoff games.
- NBC – Home to Sunday Night Football, featuring high-profile matchups.
- CBS – Airs most AFC games, including many key matchups throughout the regular season.
- Fox – Broadcasts a majority of NFC games every Sunday.
- NFL Network – Offers extensive NFL programming, including a few live games, especially during the playoffs.
These channels ensure that you won’t miss any significant games throughout the season, making YouTube TV a popular option for die-hard NFL fans.
The NFL Game Schedule on YouTube TV
Now that we’ve discussed the channels, it’s time to explore what specific NFL games you can enjoy via YouTube TV. The NFL regular season runs from September to January, followed by the playoffs. Here’s a breakdown of how each week’s games are typically organized:
Regular Season Games
During the regular season, you can access a variety of games each week. Here are the key features:
- Thursday Night Football – Broadcasted mostly on Amazon Prime Video, but select games may also air on NFL Network, which you can watch through YouTube TV.
- Sunday Games – Most of the action occurs on Sundays, with games airing on CBS and Fox, and select broadcasts on NBC.
Sunday Schedule Breakdown
- Early Games: Generally, five or six games starting at 1:00 PM ET.
- Late Games: Typically three games beginning at 4:05 PM ET or 4:25 PM ET.
- Sunday Night Football: The marquee matchup starts at 8:20 PM ET on NBC.
Playoff Games
YouTube TV covers all the key playoff games, including the Wild Card round, Divisional round, AFC and NFC Championships, and, of course, the Super Bowl.
- The playoff schedule features games on various networks, including CBS, NBC, and Fox, ensuring comprehensive coverage right through to the championship.
Maximizing Your NFL Viewing Experience on YouTube TV
With the exciting array of games available, let’s discuss how to enhance your NFL-watching experience on YouTube TV.
Utilizing DVR Features
One of the standout features of YouTube TV is its Cloud DVR. As a subscriber, you get:
- Unlimited Storage: Record your favorite games and shows for later viewing.
- Auto-Delete Functionality: Old recordings are automatically deleted when you run out of space—meaning you can keep your most precious matches.
Customizable Notifications
YouTube TV allows you to set notifications for your favorite teams:
- Game Reminders: Get alerts when your team is about to play.
- Final Score Alerts: Receive updates on your team’s performance, even if you can’t watch the game live.
Viewing Alternatives and Additional Content
If you’re a serious NFL fan, you might also be interested in extra football programming beyond regular-season games.
NFL RedZone
While not included directly in a base YouTube TV subscription, you can access NFL RedZone through additional subscriptions. NFL RedZone provides live updates and coverage of all the games on Sunday, showcasing pivotal plays and touchdowns as they happen, making it a thrilling addition to your football experience.
Documentaries and Shows
Don’t forget about the extensive NFL programming available on the following networks:
- NFL Network: Features documentaries, special events, and shows like “Hard Knocks” and “Game Pass,” which offer deep dives into team dynamics and player journeys.
Your Complete Guide to Getting Started with YouTube TV
If you’re new to YouTube TV, getting started is straightforward. Here are some actionable steps to follow:
Creating an Account
- Visit YouTube TV’s Website: Go to youtube.com/tv and click on “Try It Free.”
- Sign Up: Fill out your information, and choose your desired plan.
- Set Up Your Preferences: Customize your lineup and choose favorite teams for notifications.
Optimizing Your Device Choices
YouTube TV is compatible with a wide range of devices, including:
- Smart TVs
- Streaming Devices (Roku, Chromecast, Fire Stick)
- Game Consoles
- Mobile Devices (iOS and Android)
This compatibility ensures you can enjoy the NFL wherever you are.
Conclusion: Make YouTube TV Your NFL Hub
In summary, YouTube TV is an excellent choice for NFL fans looking to catch all the games live. With channels like CBS, NBC, Fox, and ESPN, you have access to a comprehensive NFL schedule ranging from the regular season to the playoffs and the Super Bowl.
By utilizing features like DVR, customizable notifications, and potential add-ons like NFL RedZone, you can truly tailor your experience to fit your football-watching needs.
Whether you’re looking for every touchdown, all the drama of the playoffs, or the excitement of game day, YouTube TV serves as a fantastic platform to keep you connected to the NFL action you love. So, grab your remote, settle down in your favorite chair, and get ready for a season full of unforgettable moments!
What NFL games can I watch on YouTube TV?
YouTube TV offers a comprehensive package of NFL games, allowing subscribers to watch regular-season games, playoffs, and the Super Bowl. Subscribers have access to major networks that air NFL contests, including CBS, NBC, FOX, and ESPN. This range of channels means that many primetime games, Sunday matchups, and Thursday Night Football are available at your fingertips.
Additionally, YouTube TV also allows viewers to enjoy NFL RedZone for an enhanced viewing experience. This channel provides real-time highlights and key moments from all Sunday games, ensuring fans don’t miss any critical plays or scoring drives. Always check the local listings and the NFL schedule to make sure you’re aware of which games will be broadcast in your area.
Do I need a cable subscription to watch NFL games on YouTube TV?
No, you do not need a traditional cable subscription to access NFL games on YouTube TV. As a streaming service, YouTube TV allows you to watch live television online without the need for a cable setup. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to cut the cord and still enjoy live sports, including NFL games, from the comfort of their home.
With YouTube TV, you simply sign up for a monthly subscription, and you can stream games on various devices, including smart TVs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. This flexibility means you can catch games from anywhere, making it a convenient option for fans who are always on the go.
What features does YouTube TV offer for NFL fans?
YouTube TV provides several features that enhance the viewing experience for NFL fans. One of the standout features is the ability to record live TV with its unlimited DVR storage option, which allows you to save games and watch them later. This is particularly handy for fans who may not be able to watch live due to scheduling conflicts.
Furthermore, YouTube TV supports streaming in up to 1080p resolution, providing high-quality visuals for an immersive game-watching experience. The subscription also includes a wide array of channels beyond just sports, giving you access to a variety of entertainment options, which makes it a versatile choice for households with diverse viewing preferences.
Is there a blackout system in place for NFL games on YouTube TV?
Yes, YouTube TV follows the NFL’s blackout policy, which can affect the availability of certain games based on your geographic location. Primarily, local games that are broadcast in your area may not be available if they are subject to a blackout due to broadcast regulations. This typically occurs during specific games played by local teams.
To circumvent potential blackouts, fans can look into using a VPN service, although this may violate YouTube TV’s terms of service. Always stay informed about which games are subject to blackout restrictions by checking the NFL’s official website or your YouTube TV schedule regularly to avoid disappointment.
Can I watch NFL playoffs and the Super Bowl on YouTube TV?
Absolutely! YouTube TV subscribers can watch all NFL playoff games, including the Super Bowl, as the service carries major networks that broadcast these events. Typically, the playoffs are aired on networks such as CBS, FOX, and NBC, all of which are included in the YouTube TV subscription.
This access ensures that fans don’t miss any exciting postseason action, culminating in the biggest game of the year—the Super Bowl. With YouTube TV, viewers can enjoy watching these high-stakes games live, giving them the thrilling experience that comes with playoff football.
How much does YouTube TV cost and is there a free trial?
YouTube TV is subscription-based and typically costs around $72.99 per month. This monthly fee grants access to a wide variety of channels, including those that show NFL games. Pricing may vary with regional factors and any additional features or packages that you might choose to add, such as HBO or Showtime.
YouTube TV often offers a free trial for new subscribers, which typically lasts around 7 to 14 days. This free trial allows potential customers to explore the service, check out channel availability, and test out features like DVR before committing to a subscription. However, be sure to check their website for the most up-to-date information regarding free trial offers and pricing.